As children in Quebec head back to school post-holidays, nine-year-old Ellie remains absent, expressing frustration at missing out on school. Due to lack of adequate support this year at St. Lawrence School, where she typically attends, Ellie, who has autism and dyslexia, has been home since November.
Facing challenges without the usual assistance from the school, Ellie’s mother, Celyn Harding-Jones, detailed the distressing impact on her daughter, leading to meltdowns and loss of control. Consequently, Ellie’s family and the school jointly opted for a break from traditional classes. Presently, the school arranges for a tutor to assist Ellie three times a week for two hours daily, while Harding-Jones has taken time off work to support her daughter’s return to school.
The reduction in spending by $570 million in Quebec’s education sector has affected various schools and services. Despite a partial reinvestment following public outcry, strict conditions, including hiring constraints, were attached to the restored funds. Riverside School Board Chair Chris Craig emphasized the budget cuts’ ongoing repercussions, limiting services and resources for students due to long-standing financial pressures.
Bianca Nugent, leading the Coalition de parents d’enfants à besoins particuliers du Québec, highlighted the impact on students with disabilities facing disruptions and exclusion from school services. Concerns were raised regarding the outdated education policy, insufficient resources, and increased strain on families due to the lack of proper support.
Laurence Simard-Gagnon, part of the Ligue des droits et libertés education committee, condemned the inadequate services for children with disabilities, stressing the need for full-time specialized staff and monitoring to ensure inclusive education. The National Protector of the Student underscored the violation of students’ rights under the Education Act through service disruptions, calling for urgent measures to ensure continuous schooling for all students.
In response, the education minister’s office acknowledged the challenges some students face, citing efforts to enhance support networks with additional professionals, support staff, and specialized classrooms. The ministry reiterated its commitment to students’ well-being and collaborative efforts with school service centers and healthcare resources to prioritize students’ best interests.